The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 is an important turning point in American history when looking at the history of labor. It is the first time that American troops are used to put down an internal rebellion. Martinsburg, West Virginia is where the strike started. This fact is briefly mentioned in other histories. This book will look at the strike through the lens of Martinsburg and its citizens. Baltimore and Pittsburgh get much more attention with regard to the strike. This book will mention how Martinsburg sets the stage for their start.